Siglo XX cambalache

The song 'Siglo XX cambalache' by Buitres is a poignant and critical reflection on the state of the world during the twentieth century. The lyrics paint a picture of a world filled with corruption, deceit, and moral decay, suggesting that these issues have been persistent throughout history. The song opens with a stark acknowledgment that the world has always been a 'porqueria' (a mess), whether in the year 506 or 2000, highlighting the timeless nature of human flaws. The mention of 'chorros, maquiavelos y estafaus' (thieves, Machiavellians, and swindlers) sets the tone for a narrative that explores the darker aspects of human nature.

The chorus emphasizes the idea that in the twentieth century, distinctions between right and wrong, educated and ignorant, or honest and deceitful have become blurred. The line 'todo es igual, nada es mejor' (everything is the same, nothing is better) underscores a sense of disillusionment and cynicism. The song criticizes the lack of moral hierarchy, where 'los inmorales nos han igualau' (the immoral have made us equal), suggesting that societal values have eroded to the point where everyone is on the same low moral ground. This is further illustrated by the comparison of diverse figures like Toscanini, Scarface, Napoleon, and Don Bosco, all mixed together in a chaotic 'cambalache' (swap meet or jumble).

The song also touches on the futility of striving for honesty or hard work in such a corrupt world. The phrase 'el que no llora no mama y el que afana es un gil' (he who doesn't cry doesn't get fed, and he who steals is a fool) encapsulates the idea that only those who manipulate or deceive succeed. The final verses drive home the point that it doesn't matter what one does for a living or how one behaves; in the end, everyone is caught in the same moral quagmire. The song's bleak outlook is a powerful commentary on the societal and ethical challenges of the twentieth century, making it a timeless critique of human nature and societal structures.